Luba-hemba Altar Figure, Democratic Republic Of Congo, Early 20th Century

Domestic altar figure depicting a nude female figure standing on a circular pedestal, her knees slightly bent and her rounded buttocks marked. Her stomach is decorated with scarifications, her hands resting on her shoulders in a symbolic gesture. Her face displays a beautiful, gentle, and serene expression, accentuated by her half-closed, almond-shaped eyes. The headdress is arranged in a bun at the back, decorated with a cruciform motif, and delineated at the front by a carved hoop on the top of the forehead. Wood, old brown patina, slightly thick in places, signs of use. Luba-Hemba, Democratic Republic of Congo, early 20th century Dimensions: 11.5 x 3.6 cm – With base: 14 cm Provenance: old collection from northern France "This altar statuette, probably intended for the protection of the home or an individual, reflects the aesthetics and beliefs of the Luba and Hemba peoples. The hands placed on the shoulders can symbolize responsibility, wisdom or the transmission of ancestral knowledge." Sold with certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes, guarantee of origin and period. * Shipping costs on estimate.